Mazda 6 Tourer (2012 – 2022) Review

Mazda 6
2.5 GT Sport Nav+ 4dr Auto
£19,999

Mazda 6 Tourer (2012 – 2022) At A Glance

Honest John Overall Rating

The 6 Tourer is a well-built and practical family car with plenty of space. It's also one of best family estate cars on sale, with excellent handling, strong engines and a well-finished cabin.

Great to drive with a well-finished cabin, comfortable and practical, huge improvements to refinement and steering from October 2016.

Not quite the biggest load space, no hybrid option, 2.5 petrol is thirsty and expensive.

Insurance Groups are between 16–23
On average it achieves 77% of the official MPG figure

The Mazda 6 Tourer is the Japanese brand’s mid-sized estate car competitor, designed to take on key rivals like the Ford Mondeo Estate, the Vauxhall Insignia Sports Tourer and the Volkswagen Passat Estate. Mazda has already enjoyed success with the saloon version of the 6, which combines a pretty exterior and strong driving dynamics with good value, and the Tourer version builds on this combination.

It might be more practical than the saloon but it retains that car’s impressive driving dynamics - it’s certainly an estate for buyers who still want to enjoy driving. Add to that the good specification and a quality interior, and the 6 Tourer has a broad appeal.

The Mazda 6 Tourer is exactly what you would expect from Mazda, who have been on something of a roll for several years, producing a sequence of impressive products.

The higher roofline means back row space is better in the Tourer than the saloon, with ample head and legroom even for adult occupants.

The boot has a volume of 506 litres, with a nice wide hatch and a flat floor, making it ideal for getting bulky items like pushchairs in and out. Folding the seats down frees up 1632 litres of space, which is competitive if not quite up there with the best in the class.

Inside the 6 Tourer continues to impress, with an attractive interior design and a good specification. There’s an easy-to-operate infotainment system and a low-key dashboard design that’s also finished in attractive materials; it might not match those of the Volkswagen Passat but it’s close enough to not make a massive difference.

The engine range is straightforward, with either a 2.0-litre petrol or 2.2-litre diesel on offer, although unlike much of the competition the 6 Tourer isn’t available with a turbocharged petrol or hybrid powertrain.

The 2.0-litre petrol is available with 145PS or 165PS, while the diesel is offered with outputs of 150PS or 175PS. The petrol versions are capable and fairly economical and, in practice, there is little difference between the two diesel variants.

We’d recommend the 150PS diesel option for most buyers. At the top of the range is a 2.5-litre petrol, and while it offers more power and performance it is more expensive to buy and to fuel, and is not really worth the extra outlay.

To drive, the 150PS diesel is flexible and capable, with a broad spread of torque giving good performance on the road – yet it’s also economical. Official figures are 67.3mpg and while that might not be feasible in real world driving, fuel bills should still be very small for such a large and practical car.

The 6, whether in saloon or estate form, is a great car to drive, with precise, well-weighted steering, a satisfying gear change and a sense of nimbleness that belies the car’s size. The Mondeo might have been the most enjoyable driver’s car in its class in the past, but the Mazda6 has probably taken the crown now.

But competition is stiff. The Ford Mondeo matches the Mazda 6 in every key area, while the Volkswagen Passat Estate is more refined, has a more spacious and versatile load area. But the Mazda 6 Tourer is certainly worth a look – it’s practical, well-made cabin, stylish looks and excellent driving capabilities make it very appealing indeed.

Reviews for Mazda 6 Tourer (2012 – 2022)'s top 3 rivals

Skoda Superb

Boot capacity is massive. Limousine-like levels of passenger space. Refined driving experience favours...

Ford Mondeo Estate

Excellent blend of enjoyable driving and comfort. Spacious load area. Practical and well finished cabin.

Toyota Avensis

Comfortable and quiet on the move, economical diesels including 1.6-litre diesel, well built and durable.

Mazda 6 Tourer (2012 – 2022) handling and engines

Engines range from 2.0 145 to 2.2 D 175 Automatic
Readers report Real MPG to be between 32–62 mpg

Mazda 6 Tourer (2012 – 2022): Handling and ride quality

The Mazda 6 has precise, well-weighted steering and an enjoyable gear change, making the challenging roads a real pleasure. Despite this, the Mazda 6 Tourer is easy to drive when you just want to get from A to B.

Refinement is very good. Engine noise is well suppressed in both petrol and diesel models and the cabin is very quiet even when cruising at motorway speeds – though occasionally there is a little tyre noise. The suspension can be a little firm at low speeds too, but the problem is less apparent when on a flowing road at speed.

In fact, on a sweeping A-road or even a tight B-road the Mazda 6 tourer feels great – that firmness keeps body roll at bay, yet provides enough suppleness to maintain comfort levels. The level of grip is impressive, and the brakes are strong, meaning surprises like tightening bends or animals in the road are fairly straightforward to contend with.

Mazda 6 Tourer (2012 – 2022): Engines

There is a 2.0-litre petrol engine available with 145PS or 165PS, plus a 2.2-litre diesel with wither 150PS or 175PS. The petrol options are surprisingly efficient, with official figures of more than 50mpg for the less powerful version – but more drivers are likely to choose one of the diesels.

With a broad spread of torque and better fuel economy it’s easy to understand why. Both the 150PS and 175PS variants at home on the motorway or on a country road, but most drivers the benefit of the more powerful engine is marginal.

That said, if you tow a trailer or caravan its additional 40Nm torque – 420Nm versus 380Nm - might come in handy.

Mazda 6 Tourer (2012 – 2022): Safety

Euro NCAP tested the Mazda 6 in 2018 and awarded the maximum five stars with an exceptionally high score of 95 per cent for adult protection and 91 per cent for child protection.

Less impressive was the 66 per cent score for vulnerable road users (formerly pedestrian mitigation), but the safety assist score of 73 per cent is strong, contributing to the impressive overall result.

Higher specification models also include features such as lane keep assist, driver attention alert and rear smart city brake support, which warns the driver in the event that the car detects an imminent impact from the rear.

This gives the 6 Tourer one of the highest standard provisions of safety equipment - there are no safety options available on the higher grades - which makes it an appealing option for the safety conscious.

Mazda 6 Tourer (2012 – 2022): Towing

Mazda does not quote a permitted unbraked towing weight for the 6 Tourer, but the braked towing capacity varies simply between petrol and diesel engines, with the former capable of 1500kg and the latter 1600kg.

Engine	MPG	0-62	CO₂
2.0 145	50 mpg	9.6 s	131–136 g/km
2.0 165	48 mpg	9.1 s	136 g/km
2.2 D	58–64 mpg	9.1 s	116–129 g/km
2.2 D 150	64–67 mpg	9.2 s	110–116 g/km
2.2 D 150 Automatic	58 mpg	10.0 s	129 g/km
2.2 D 175	61 mpg	7.9 s	121 g/km
2.2 D 175 Automatic	58 mpg	8.6 s	129 g/km
2.2 D Automatic	58 mpg	10.0 s	129 g/km

Real MPG average for the Mazda 6 Tourer (2012 – 2022)

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

77%

Real MPG

32–62 mpg

MPGs submitted

308

Mazda 6 Tourer (2012 – 2022) interior

Interior Rating

The Mazda 6 Tourer isn’t the most practical estate car in its class – that accolade goes to the Volkswagen Passat Estate – but with 506 litres of space it’s hardly small.

Boot space is 506–1648 litres
Euro NCAP rating of five stars

Dimensions
Length	4800–4805 mm
Width	1840 mm
Height	1475–1480 mm
Wheelbase	2750–2830 mm
Full specifications

Mazda 6 Tourer (2012 – 2022): Practicality

The load deck is low, which helps shorter people with loading and unloading plus it's also very handy for dog owners, since most dogs will be able to leap in and out unaided. Another handy touch for dog owners is the divider, which keeps pets from clambering into the cabin from the boot.

For a family the Mazda 6 Tourer is a better car than the saloon, since the roof doesn’t slope behind the rear seats, maximising head room. In fact adults should be quite comfy in the back row, even on longer drives. Up front it’s easy for driver or passenger to get comfortable, plus the 6 feels really well screwed together.

Folding the rear seats is straightforward and frees up a total of 1632 litres and there’s no load lip, so heavy items are easy to get in and out.

Mazda 6 Tourer (2012 – 2022): Quality and finish

Buttons and dials are finished in metal, while the dashboard is finished in a soft-touch but still very durable plastic. Compared to cars from other Japanese manufacturers like Honda and Toyota, the Mazda 6 feels leagues ahead and easily gives Volkswagen a run for its money when it comes to plushness.

All models come well equipped. The basic SE-L Nav+ grade includes alloy wheels, cruise control, a eight-inch colour touchscreen with navigation, DAB radio, an electric parking brake and manual air conditioning.

Higher grades gain extra technology like automatic emergency braking or luxuries like leather upholstery. Buyers who want navigation can specify it with any trim level.

Mazda 6 Tourer (2012 – 2022): Infotainment

All versions of the 6 Tourer come with a good spec infotainment system that includes DAB, satellite navigation, Bluetooth, Apple Car Play and Android Auto, which for most people will tick all the required boxes.

Older used cars may not have the same specification, so it is important to check what is fitted. On new models, Sport Nav+ and GT Sport Nav+ trim levels get an upgraded Bose system with 11 speakers that offers superior sound quality.

Whichever version you have the system functions the same way, with a 8-inch touchscreen mounted centrally as well as a rotary controller with shortcut buttons mounted on the centre console.

Mazda 6 Tourer (2012 – 2022) value for money

Value for Money Rating

Even though Mazda hasn’t yet given in to the turbo petrol revolution, the 6 performs well in terms of fuel consumption given its size.

Mazda 6 Tourer (2012 – 2022): Prices

Prices for new examples of the 6 Tourer start at £25,725, which compares to £23,810 for a Ford Mondeo 1.5 EcoBoost Zetec Edition and £28,305 for a Volkswagen Passat 1.5 TSI EVO SE. The Mazda is more expensive than some rivals but it does offer a high standard specification.

SE-L Lux Nav+ with the 2.0-litre 145PS petrol is £30,125. The Sport Nav+ petrol is £28,525 with the 165PS engine, while the highest GT Sport Nav+ trim comes with the 2.5-litre petrol and auto only at £33,435.

As for diesel versions, the 150PS version in SE-L Nav+ trim is £28,725, £30,125 in SE-L Lux Nav+ and £30,825 in Sport Nav+ - the latter is also available with the more powerful 184PS engine for £31,425 and with automatic transmission for £33,335.

The GT Sport Nav+ model with the 184PS diesel is £33,835 in manual form and £35,735 with an auto gearbox.

As for used examples, the 6 Tourer has been on sale since 2012 so it should be easy to find an example to suit your budget. Because it is still available as a new car, there are pre-reg and nearly-new versions on the market too.

We found a 2020-registered 2.0-litre petrol Sport Nav+ with less than 2000 miles on the clock for £23,000, or a 2.2D Sport Nav+ with delivery mileage for £26,000. As for older cars, the earliest 2014 cars look like potential bargains. We found a 2014 2.2D SE-L Nav with 75,000 miles on the clock for less than £7500.

Mazda 6 Tourer (2012 – 2022): Running Costs

The two 2.0-litre petrol engines claim the same combined fuel consumption figure of 41.5mpg, but the individual figures are better for the lower-power version, so in the real world you can expect slightly better consumption from the 145PS model.

As for the diesels, it’s a similar story, with both outputs of the 2.2-litre unit providing similar figures. The claimed combined WLTP figure is 46.3mpg, but the more powerful 184PS version has a slightly higher CO2 figure of 144g/km versus 141g/km. Either way, as long as you avoid the 2.5-litre petrol, fuel economy is impressive.

More than for most cars, the engine and spec of Mazda 6 you choose can have a big effect on your premium. On new models the SE-L Nav+ is in group 22 for the 2.0-litre 145PS petrol, and group 25 for the 150PS 2.2-litre diesel.

Move up to SE-L Lux Nav+ and the diesel moves up a group to 26, and on the Sport Nav+ (which has a wider engine choice) it ranges from group 24 to 31 for the more powerful 2.2-litre diesel.

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Mazda 6 Tourer (2012 – 2022) models and specs

SE-L Nav+ is the basic trim level. It includes 17-inch alloy wheels, manual air conditioning, DAB radio, front and rear electric windows, cruise control, eight-inch touchscreen with MZD connect, electric parking brake, leather covered steering wheel and gear knob, sat nav.

SE-L Lux Nav+ adds heated leather seats, heated steering wheel, electric driver and passenger seats, reversing camera.

Sport Nav+ adds 19-inch alloy wheels, leather trim, head-up display, BOSE audio, reversing camera, smart keyless entry, LED headlights.

GT Sport Nav+ adds electric sunroof, Nappa leather, ventilated front seats, heated rear outer seats, wood and suede trim, safety pack and seven-inch digital instrument display

Dimensions
Length	4800–4805 mm
Width	1840 mm
Height	1475–1480 mm
Wheelbase	2750–2830 mm

Miscellaneous
Kerb Weight	1461–1618 kg
Boot Space	506–1648 L
Warranty	3 years / 60000 miles
Servicing	12500 miles

Spare Wheel
Standard	Tyre-repair kit
Alternative	Space-saving spare wheel

Costs
List Price	£21,725–£29,795
Insurance Groups	16–23
Road Tax Bands	B–E
Official MPG	47.9–67.3 mpg

Euro NCAP Safety Ratings
Adult	-
Child	-
Pedestrian	-
Overall	5

On sale until November 2018

Estate
Version	List Price	MPG	0-62
2.0 145ps SE-L 5dr	£21,725	50.4 mpg	9.6 s
2.0 145ps SE-L Nav 5dr	£23,095	50.4 mpg	-
2.0 165ps Sport Nav 5dr	£25,495	47.9 mpg	9.1 s
2.0 165ps Sport Nav 5dr	£26,295	47.9 mpg	-
2.2D 150ps SE 5dr	£23,820	64.2 mpg	9.1 s
2.2D 150ps SE Nav 5dr	£24,595	64.2 mpg	-
2.2D 150ps SE-L 5dr	£24,095	64.2 mpg	9.1 s
2.2D 150ps SE-L Auto 5dr	£25,295	57.6 mpg	10.0 s
2.2D 150ps SE-L Nav 5dr	£25,495	67.3 mpg	-
2.2D 150ps SE-L Nav Auto 5dr	£26,895	57.6 mpg	-
2.2D 150ps Sport Nav 5dr	£27,995	64.2 mpg	-
2.2D 150ps Sport Nav 5dr	£27,295	64.2 mpg	9.1 s
2.2D 175ps Sport Nav 5dr	£28,395	61.4 mpg	-
2.2D 175ps Sport Nav 5dr	£27,695	61.4 mpg	7.9 s
2.2D 175ps Sport Nav Auto 5dr	£29,795	57.6 mpg	-
2.2D 175ps Sport Nav Auto 5dr	£28,895	57.6 mpg	8.6 s

On sale until April 2017

Estate
Version	List Price	MPG	0-62
2.0 145ps SE-L Nav 5dr	£22,755	50.4 mpg	-
2.0 165ps Sport Nav 5dr	£25,825	47.9 mpg	-
2.2D 150ps SE Nav 5dr	£24,355	64.2 mpg	-
2.2D 150ps SE-L Nav 5dr	£25,255	64.2 mpg	-
2.2D 150ps SE-L Nav Auto 5dr	£26,435	57.6 mpg	-
2.2D 150ps Sport Nav 5dr	£27,735	64.2 mpg	-
2.2D 175ps Sport Nav 5dr	£28,135	61.4 mpg	-
2.2D 175ps Sport Nav Auto 5dr	£29,335	57.6 mpg	-

On sale until October 2015

Estate
Version	List Price	MPG	0-62
2.0 SE-L 145 5dr	£21,725	50.4 mpg	9.6 s
2.2 SE Diesel 150 5dr	£23,095	67.3 mpg	9.2 s
2.2 SE-L Diesel 150 5dr	£24,095	67.3 mpg	9.2 s
2.2 SE-L Diesel 150 Auto 5dr	£25,295	57.6 mpg	10.0 s

Model History

February 2012
September 2012
November 2012: Mazda6 information revealed
November 2013
December 2014: Mazda 6 facelift announced
August 2016: Revamp of Mazda 6 and Mazda 6 Tourer
March 2018: Prices for updated Mazda 6 announced
April 2021: Mazda 6 Kuro Edition announced

February 2012

Mazda unveiled its Takeri concept car for the first time in Europe at the Geneva International Motor Show in March 2012. Mazda Takeri is a next-generation mid-sized saloon featuring Mazda's new and unique i-ELOOP regenerative braking technology.

The Takeri is the latest concept to adopt Mazda's ‘KODO - Soul of Motion' design theme, bringing a new level of strength and allure to saloon styling. The Mazda Takeri offers a taste of the future direction of Mazda's next-generation CD-segment saloon, further developing the vision of the Mazda Shinari, an exciting four-door sports coupe concept showcased at Geneva last year. Under its captivating exterior, the Takeri features Mazda's highly-efficient new SKYACTIV-D diesel engine with a fuel-saving ‘i-stop' system and six-speed SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission.

The Takeri aims for the ultimate in energy efficiency without compromising on Mazda's fun-to-drive performance and handling. It is the first Mazda car to be equipped with i-ELOOP - short for "Intelligent Energy Loop". This is Mazda's first regenerative braking system and uses a unique solution that converts kinetic energy to electricity during deceleration and stores it in an electric double-layer capacitor. The power is used to run the vehicle's electric components, thereby reducing the load on the engine and increasing fuel economy by up to 10 percent. This contributes to the Mazda Takeri's outstanding fuel economy, which is achieved at no sacrifice to performance or comfort.

September 2012

Mazda6 flagship model priced from £19,595 when it goes on sale in January 2013, it has been announced. Range kicks off with a the 2.0 SE petrol and prices rise to £28,045 for the 2.2 diesel Tourer Sport Nav automatic.

Mazda’s SkyActiv technology features – it combines lightweight materials, high tech engines and fuel-saving sytems like stop/start to reduce emissions and improve fuel economy . Mazda is aiming for emissions of 108g/km for the cleanest models.

The cabin has been designed as a comfortable environment, with A-pillars moved forward to give a better field of view and an ergonomic design to maximise comfort and driver involvement. There’s an array of driver aids to keep occupants safe, too.

November 2012

Mazda6 information revealed

Saloon SKYACTIV-G Petrol	Power (ps)	Torque (Nm)	0-62mph (sec)	Top speed (mph)	Combined (mpg)*
2.0 145ps manual	145	210	9.5	129	51.4
2.0 145ps automatic	145	210	10.5	129	47.9
2.0 165ps manual	165	210	9.1	134	47.9
SKYACTIV-D Diesel
2.2 150ps manual	150	380	9.0	131	67.3
2.2 150ps automatic	150	380	9.8	127	58.9
2.2 175ps manual	175	420	7.9	139	62.8
2.2 175ps automatic	175	420	8.4	134	58.9
Tourer SKYACTIV-G Petrol
2.0 145ps manual	145	210	9.6	128	50.4
2.0 165ps manual	165	210	9.1	133	47.9
SKYACTIV-D Diesel
2.2 150ps manual	150	380	9.2	130	64.2
2.2 150ps automatic	150	380	10.0	126	57.6
2.2 175ps manual	175	420	8.0	137	61.4
2.2 175ps automatic	175	420	8.6	134	57.6

Saloon SKYACTIV-G Petrol	'On the road' Retail	CO 2 (g/km)	RFL Band	Insurance Group	P11D Value	Monthly BIK 20% / 40%
2.0 145ps SE	£19,595	129	D	TBC	16%	£52 / £104
2.0 145ps SE Nav	£20,195	129	D	TBC	16%	£53 / £107
2.0 145ps SE-L	£20,395	129	D	TBC	16%	£54 / £108
2.0 145ps SE-L Nav	£20,995	129	D	TBC	16%	£55 / £111
2.0 145ps SE-L Auto	£21,715	136	E	TBC	18%	£64 / £129
2.0 145ps SE-L Nav Auto	£22,315	136	E	TBC	18%	£66 / £132
2.0 165ps Sport	£23,515	135	E	TBC	18%	£70 / £140
2.0 165ps Sport Nav	£24,115	135	E	TBC	18%	£71 / £143
SKYACTIV-D Diesel
2.2 150ps SE*	£21,795	108	B	TBC	15%	£54 / £108
2.2 150ps SE Nav*	£22,395	108	B	TBC	15%	£55 / £111
2.2 150ps SE-L	£22,595	108	B	TBC	15%	£56 / £112
2.2 150ps SE-L Nav	£23,195	108	B	TBC	15%	£57 / £115
2.2 150ps SE-L Auto	£23,795	127	D	TBC	19%	£75 / £150
2.2 150ps SE-L Nav Auto	£24,395	127	D	TBC	19%	£77 / £154
2.2 150ps Sport	£24,995	108	B	TBC	15%	£62 / £124
2.2 150ps Sport Nav	£25,595	108	B	TBC	15%	£63 / £127
2.2 175ps Sport	£25,495	119	C	TBC	17%	£72 / £144
2.2 175ps Sport Nav	£26,095	119	C	TBC	17%	£73 / £147
2.2 175ps Sport Auto	£26,695	127	D	TBC	19%	£84 / £168
2.2 175ps Sport Nav Auto	£27,295	127	D	TBC	19%	£86 / £172

All-new Mazda6 Tourer / Price List - November 2012

Tourer SKYACTIV-G Petrol	'On the road' Retail	CO 2 (g/km)	RFL Band	Insurance Group	P11D Value	Monthly BIK 20% / 40%
2.0 145ps SE-L	£21,265	131	E	TBC	17%	£59 / £119
2.0 145ps SE-L Nav	£21,865	131	E	TBC	17%	£61 / £122
2.0 165ps Sport	£24,265	136	E	TBC	18%	£72 / £144
2.0 165ps Sport Nav	£24,865	136	E	TBC	18%	£74 / £148
SKYACTIV-D Diesel
2.2 150ps SE*	£22,545	116	C	TBC	17%	£63 / £127
2.2 150ps SE Nav*	£23,145	116	C	TBC	17%	£65 / £130
2.2 150ps SE-L	£23,345	116	C	TBC	17%	£65 / £131
2.2 150ps SE-L Nav	£23,945	116	C	TBC	17%	£67 / £135
2.2 150ps SE-L Auto	£24,545	129	D	TBC	19%	£77 / £155
2.2 150ps SE-L Nav Auto	£25,145	129	D	TBC	19%	£79 / £158
2.2 150ps Sport	£25,745	116	C	TBC	17%	£72 / £145
2.2 150ps Sport Nav	£26,345	116	C	TBC	17%	£74 / £148
2.2 175ps Sport	£26,245	121	D	TBC	18%	£78 / £157
2.2 175ps Sport Nav	£26,845	121	D	TBC	18%	£80 / £160
2.2 175ps Sport Auto	£27,445	129	D	TBC	19%	£86 / £173
2.2 175ps Sport Nav Auto	£28,045	129	D	TBC	19%	£88 / £177

November 2013

CO2 of Mazda 6 Skyactiv D 150PS manual reduced from 108g/km to 104g/km with EC combined economy also improving from 67.3mpg to 72.4mpg.

For the Mazda6 Tourer with the same powertrain, emissions are reduced to 110g/km from 116g/km and economy improved from 64.2mpg to 67.3mpg, moving it from band C to the lower band B for annual VED purposes. The improvements have been made without sacrificing the car's fun-to-drive characteristics.

December 2014

Mazda 6 facelift announced

Upgraded 2015 Mazda6 Saloon and Tourer line-up on sale in the UK early in 2015, priced from £19,795 to £28,795 on-the-road (OTR). Features improved standard equipment levels across the range, enhanced interior and exterior design, plus improved functionality, ride comfort and quietness, and the adoption of sophisticated new technologies in Mazda's optional Safety Pack.

The 2015 Mazda6 model range is available in five grades; SE, SE Nav, SE-L, SE-L Nav and Sport Nav. A choice of nine diesel and seven petrol Saloon variants, and nine diesel and three petrol Tourer versions, equipped with either six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. Eight body colours are available, including a new Sonic Silver metallic that accentuates the Mazda6's stunning form and character lines.

Every model in the 2015 Mazda6 range features a bold new instrument panel and centre console design, revised suspension system, improved sound insulation throughout the body and a comprehensively upgraded standard equipment specification.

SE and SE-L grades now include an electric parking brake, a coming/leaving home headlamp function, Mazda's Multimedia Commander with separate volume dial for safe, intuitive interactivity and infotainment control, manual driver and front passenger seat height adjustment. A new 7-inch, full-colour, centre console touch-screen incorporates DAB radio, and MZD Connect - first featured on the 2014 Mazda3. Paired with a smartphone, MZD Connect makes it easier to take advantage of functions such as internet connectivity and access to social networking services.

Top-of-the-range Sport Nav models get new exterior features including a re-styled front - new grille and signature wing design - incorporating powerful LED headlamps including LED daytime running lights, LED foglamps, new LED tail lamps, and new 19-inch bright alloy wheels.

A six-way power adjustable front passenger seat, vinyl leather knee pads, a new head-up display and an Integrated Navigation system complete the Sport Nav's enhanced standard equipment specification.

The Head-up Display projects the most important real-time driving data directly into the driver's forward field of view. The new Integrated Navigation system offers greater accuracy, improved search features and three years of free map updates.

Sport Nav grade options now include stone leather upholstery (in lieu of black) and an evolution of the Safety Pack incorporating several new innovative technologies.

August 2016

Revamp of Mazda 6 and Mazda 6 Tourer

on sale from October 2016.

2017 Mazda6 powertrain line-up features three SKYACTIV petrol engines -145 and 165 PS variants of the SKYACTIV-G 2.0 (and the 192 PS SKYACTIV-G 2.5 in no UK markets) and two diesels -150 and 175 PS versions of the SKYACTIV-D 2.2 - mated to automatic or manual transmissions, as before.

The 2017 SKYACTIV-D 2.2 common-rail diesel features three new systems to raise responsiveness and reduce engine noise: High-Precision DE Boost Control enhances boost pressure control to sharpen the response to accelerator inputs; a Natural Sound Smoother uses a damper to stifle diesel knock range; and Natural Sound Frequency Control deviates engine timing to neutralise pressure waves, suppressing three critical frequency bands in which engine components typically vibrate most loudly.

This decrerase in noise is complimented by a comprehensive improvement in sound insulation aboard the 2017 Mazda6, with the adoption of improved door seals, tighter tolerances between panels, and sound insulation materials added to the underbody, rear console, headliner and doors. Laminated front side windows further suppress wind noise.

On board, design improvements to enhance the Mazda-unique, driver-focused environment include a new steering wheel design, a new Active Driving Display (Mazda's heads-up display) now with higher resolution, full-colour graphics for greater readability in diverse light conditions, and a new 4.6-inch, full-colour TFT LCD driver's multi-information display with enriched graphics. A new, Machine Grey exterior colour is also available.

Finally, backed by outstanding passive safety levels, the 2017 Mazda6 is available with a full range of i-ACTIVSENSE active safety technologies. These include a European first; a new, Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) feature which identifies No Entry and speed limit signs, providing alerts should the driver exceed the limit, and the Advanced Smart City Brake Support system (Advanced SCBS), which replaces a near-infrared laser with a forward-sensing camera, widening the system's speed range for detecting other vehicles.

March 2018

Prices for updated Mazda 6 announced

Featuring an upgraded cabin, revised styling and enhanced technology, plus the UK debut of Mazda’s cylinder deactivation SKYACTIV-G 2.5-litre petrol engine, the updated Mazda6 also sees the popular SKYACTIV-D 2.2-litre diesel engine benefit from a power upgrade to 184PS.

Priced from £23,045 to £32,795, the combined Tourer and Saloon range features 24 models across four trim levels: SE-L Nav+, SE-L LUX Nav+, Sport Nav+ and GT Sport Nav+.

Matched exclusively to the new range-topping GT Sport Nav+ trim, Mazda’s 2.5-litre SKYACTIV-G engine makes its UK debut in the Mazda6. With a cylinder deactivation system, this direct-injection four-cylinder engine seamlessly switches between four and two-cylinder operation to improve real-world fuel economy at no cost to performance.

The 2.5-litre SKYACTIV-G makes its UK debut in the new Mazda6 where it’s paired with Mazda’s SKYACTIV-DRIVE six-speed automatic gearbox in both Saloon and Tourer models.

The 2018 car adopts a fresh frontal design focused around a new grille, which has the mesh positioned deeper within the surround to create a more sophisticated and muscular face.

The revised LED headlamps integrate signature wing tips from grille surround to underscore their predator style, and with the front fog lights now incorporated into the headlight cluster, the redesigned lower bumper features a sleeker profile and an aerodynamically efficient air intake. At the rear, the Saloon has a remodelled boot lid, while both the Saloon and Tourer feature cleaner rear bumper styling with more body coloured areas.

Topping off the styling updates are new alloy wheel designs and the introduction of Soul Red Crystal paint, which thanks to Mazda’s unique three-layer TAKUMINURI painting technology increases brightness by approximately 20 per cent and depth by 50 per cent, compared to previous Soul Red Metallic paint.

Step inside the new Mazda6 and the updates are even more evident. New materials and technology combined with refinements to the cabin design deliver an understated sense of luxury. With fine craftsmanship applied to every detail, highlights across the range include the introduction of a larger eight-inch centre display screen, a seven-inch TFT LCD positioned in the driver’s instrument binnacle and the adoption of a full colour windscreen projecting Active Driving Display.

In addition to the new 2.5-litre SKYACTIV-G engine, which features cylinder deactivation that will switch off two cylinders between 25 and 50mph to improve efficiency, the 2.0-litre SKYACTIV-G has been enhanced with new intake ports, new pistons and revised fuel injection and cooling. Plus, the popular 2.2-litre SKYACTIV-D diesel now produces 184ps (up from 175ps) in its highest state of tune.

Designed to improve ride comfort at the same time as maintaining the Mazda6’s famed driver engagement, the new Mazda6 benefits from suspension fine tuning and component upgrades.

Improved refinement has also been a focus with the addition of thicker floor and rear wheel housing noise insulation panels, plus body reinforcement in places where vibration can penetrate the cabin. New vibration absorbing material has also been added to the centre tunnel and the roof lining.

	SE-L Nav+	SE-L LUX Nav+
	Tourer OTR	Tourer OTR
SKYACTIV-G Petrol
2.0 145ps	£23,975	£25,375
2.0 145ps Auto	-	-
2.0 165ps	-	-
2.5 194ps Auto	-	-
SKYACTIV-D Diesel
2.2 150ps	£26,245	£27,645
2.2 150ps Auto	£27,645	-
2.2 184ps	-	-
2.2 184ps Auto	-	-

	Sport Nav+	GT Sport Nav+
	Tourer OTR	Tourer OTR
SKYACTIV-G Petrol
2.0 145ps	-	-
2.0 145ps Auto	-	-
2.0 165ps	£26,995	-
2.5 194ps Auto	-	£31,495
SKYACTIV-D Diesel
2.2 150ps	£28,395	£27,645
2.2 150ps Auto	-	-
2.2 184ps	£28,895	£31,295
2.2 184ps Auto	£30,395	£32,795

April 2021

Mazda 6 Kuro Edition announced

Limited to just 100 cars in the UK. Based on the Sport model with Polymetal Grey metallic paint and burgundy leather seats as standard. Priced from £29,250 for the saloon and £30,250 for the Tourer.

What to watch out for

03-09-2013:

A few complaints of graunchy changes from 1st to 2nd both from readers and on a long-term test car. Reader told that has been noted and will settle down after about 4,000 miles.

12-02-2014:

Apparently the Mazda 6 Sport on 225/45/19 tyres is very bad in snow, even with the traction control system turned off.

02-07-2014:

Report of a Mazda 6 Skyactiv D175 Sport automatic run for 27,000 kilometres in France: Front brakes and pads replaced FoC with different discs due to warping under a 'customer complains' TSB. Another TSB for exhaust pressure sensor swap. Takes 20 minutes. Symptoms: engine management light comes on, no loss in power or adverse effect on driveability. After initial problems with the satnav, Tomtom replaced the 8gB card with a new 4gB one (apparently this was done for all 6 and CX5 with Tomtom satnav in France). That card subsequently died. Bridgestone Turanza tyres lasting well with potential life of 50,000km.

18-07-2015:

Report of rear door seals melting in recent 35-40C heat, sticking to the metal and ripping out of the clips. Also, first report of warped front discs after 12k miles on a Sport model with 19-inch wheels.

14-08-2015:

Complaint that over 5,300 miles from April to August 2015, a new Mazda 6 Skyactiv diesel suffered a rise in engine ol level to between 'max' and the X mark on the dipstick. Oil drained and replaced, but now rising again. Car used for driving distances, but no mention of type of fuel used.

26-09-2015:

Complaint that 60k mile 2014/63 reg Mazda 6 Skyactiv diesel suffered problem of duel contamination by diesel at 60k miles, 2k miles before it was due a service.

30-10-2015:

Complaint of drivetrain vibration from 2014 Mazda 6 2.0 Skyactiv 165PS petrol manual, mainly in 4th gear and was very pronounced but was also occurring in 3rd and 6th but to a lesser extent. Dealer changed gearbox, but there is still residual noise/vibration in 3rd gear at about 2500rpm – only noticeable when for example going uphill or coming off a roundabout. Might be an engine or gearbox mount. Might be from trying to run the ultra high compression engine on 95Ron petrol when it really needs 99Ron.

07-12-2016:

Report of turbo failure on 2013 Mazda 6 Skyactiv D 175 auto at 36k miles.

07-12-2016:

Another unconnected case of turbo failure on a used Mazda 6 estate just 5 weeks after purchase. Dealer still has the car after two weeks.

12-01-2017:

Report of Mazda 6 2.2 Skyactiv D Tourer going in for 3rd service. Dealer told owner car could not be driven and a hire car was provided while warranty repairs were carried out. Apparently one of the exhaust valves had collapsed and swarf from it had got into the turbo and wrecked it. Owner told by the dealer that a small batch of 2.2 Skyactive D engine are having the same problem and Mazda is footing the bill. Car was back on the road after twenty days and performing as new. (This may be a bit mixed up. May mean inlet manifold swirl flaps) See: 7-12-2016..

30-10-2017:

Report of warning message "Battery Management System Inspection Required" on 34,000 mile 2013 Mazda 6 2.0 Skyactiv G SE estate. Since then, the message sometimes appears, sometimes doesn't. Car has always started fine. Local Mazda dealer says "Tech has carried out a code read and has identified that a new sensor is required" at £175. This is probably the capacitor for the i-ELOOP system. Mazdas have a separate capacitor for stop start so frequent re-starts do not drain the main 12 volt battery. Less than one year latewr (24-9-2018), "Battery Management System Inspection Required" message returned on 2013 Mazda 6 2.0 Skyactiv G SE Estate. In October 2017 the dealer said it was the current sensor. It was replaced. The error message is sporadic. Car back to the dealer next week.

03-01-2018:

Reader reported low oil pressure light coming on in 2013 Mazda 6 2.2 Skyactiv diesel tourer. Might indicate contaminated oil, oil level too high, blocke sump oil strainer or failed oil pump.

13-03-2018:

Report of problem with locking mechanis of rear seat of Mazda 6 Tourer. "After lowering the '60' part of the rear seat, it wouldn't lock back in place. Had to be booked into the dealer as it is a 3-4 hour job. According the the service tech who initally looked it it, the dealer has had to replace a number of the catch mechanisms.

29-12-2018:

Report of 2015 Mazda 6 2.2 Skyactiv D Tourer called in for a sofware update to the ECU in September 2018. Then, 2 days ago, the orange wrench warning light came on saying "Oil Change Required". Since the last service in May it has only covered 8,000 miles and the vast majority of those have been long distance journeys. The car has only done 31,200 miles and has a full Mazda service history and owner runs it on Superdiesel. Mazda dealer said there has been a spate of problems with these engines and that a possible reason for the warning is that the oil is thin, caused by various things, but could be carbon build up. The car is booked in for an investigation on the 4th January but may then have to go in again for two days for rectification work. More likely to be contamination by post-injected diesel from switching off the engine during mid-active-regeneration.

26-04-2019:

Report of SCBS and vehicle inspection light appearing on 2014 Mazda 6 2.2 Skyactiv D automatic at 127,000 miles. Initial diagonsis by independent garage: "Checked turbo actuator all ok. Removed map sensor and intake temperature sensor to find inlet manifold full of carbon. Requires new mass airflow sensor and removal of intake manifold to clean out carbon. Remove clean and refit intake manifold, removal of sump to check oil pick up for contamination." This did not rectify the issue and it went into a Mazda dealer for full diagnosis. Turns out a rivet in the turbo has failed/broken ("Initial diagnosis checked turbo actuator".) Dealer went to Mazda UK for any goodwill gesture and this was refused given the mileage and service history. Dealer can replace the turbo and complete the work for £1,900. Turbo may have failed due to blocked turbo bearing oil feed and oil return pipes from the engine being switched off instead of idling when the turbo was too hot. These pipes need to be replaced or the new turbo will fail.

11-06-2019:

Report of oil pump chain snapping in 2.2 Skyactiv d engine of March 2016 Mazda 6 at 66,000 miles despite regular servicing. Needs a new short engine, gaskets, oil pump and chain costing £5,500.